January 11th


Along the coast of Scotland an old ritual to ward off Witches was performed annually in many of the fishing villages. At sunset, a barrel of tar would be placed on top of a pole, set on fire, and be allowed to burn throughout the night. Charred pieces of it would then be used by villagers and fishermen as protective charms.
In ancient Rome, the celebration called Carmentalia was celebrated annually. This celebration would continue up until January 15th. The festival was does to honor the Roman Goddess Carmenta (The deity who presides over childbirth. The priestesses of Carmenta normally would cast the fortunes of children at the moment of their birth.
In Ancient Italy the Italic Goddess Juturna (goddess of pools and still waters) was honored in an annual festival on this day.